According to Liz Chamberlain, the director of sustainability for the online platform iFixit, the surge in gadgets equipped with surveillance capabilities raises concerns despite offering intriguing functionalities. “We’re witnessing an increase in devices embedded with surveillance technology, which can indeed facilitate some fascinating tasks,” she noted. “However, this trend leads to a critical industry issue as it means that we have microphones and cameras integrated into everyday appliances like washing machines and refrigerators.”
This year’s announcements featured notable “winners” among the gadgets beneath scrutiny. The Ultrahuman Rare Luxury Smart Ring was deemed “least repairable” by Kyle Wiens, iFixit’s CEO. Priced at $2,200 and available in attractive colors, the ring unfortunately suffers from a significant flaw: it holds a battery capable of lasting only for 500 charges. Wiens pointed out the troubling reality that replacing the battery would require the complete destruction of the device. “Luxury items may come and go, but lasting just two years for $2,200 feels like a severe letdown,” he stated. Ultrahuman did not provide immediate feedback regarding the criticisms.
The Bosch “Revol” crib also faced criticism for its advanced features. This device is said to utilize sensors, cameras, and AI to monitor an infant’s vital signs, adjusting to soothe the baby through gentle rocking motions. However, Cindy Cohn, Executive Director of the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), expressed her concerns regarding the degree of data collected, arguing that the device capitalizes on parental anxieties. “Parents are looking for safety and ease — not for devices that impose surveillance and compromise privacy,” she commented. Bosch responded by asserting that all data collected is encrypted and stored securely, emphasizing that caregivers ultimately control data transmission.
In terms of sustainability, the in-car commerce system from SoundHound AI was labeled the “least sustainable” product for its potential to exacerbate energy waste and promote unnecessary takeout delivery. Stacey Higginbotham from Consumer Reports criticized the system’s distractions and added energy demands, stating that it yields minimal value. The feature allows users to order food directly through their vehicle’s infotainment system, a point that SoundHound’s CEO has touted as a groundbreaking development for the automotive industry.
Additionally, the TP-Link Archer BE900 router was recognized for its security vulnerabilities. Paul Roberts from The Security Ledger highlighted that due to regulations, the company must inform the Chinese government of any security flaws before alerting customers, posing potential national security concerns. TP-Link Systems responded by stating that it is a U.S.-based company and does not report such issues back to China, elaborating that they maintain a vigorous supply chain and that security assessments are an ongoing process.
The “Who Asked For This?” award was claimed by Samsung’s Bespoke AI Washing Machine, criticized by Nathan Proctor from U.S. PIRG for its superfluous features such as calling capabilities that add nothing practical, leading to increased complexity and cost. At a press event, Samsung’s vice chairman stated that the company prides itself on embedding innovative technologies within their appliances as they strive towards intelligent home solutions.
Finally, the most criticized product of all was the LG “AI Home Inside 2.0 Refrigerator with ThinkQ.” Gay Gordon-Byrne from The Repair Association condemned it for its extravagant features that come with significant drawbacks, including reduced software support and high energy usage, ultimately resulting in a product that is costly and less sustainable. LG has yet to respond to these allegations.
